US IBDs to get own version of PressCamp

Last year, Lifeboat Events staged PressCamp, an ultra-luxe schwag-fest for a select bunch of editors, as seen in this video. Now, Lifeboat has announced it is to roll out the idea for top American IBDs.

DealerCamp will offer manufacturers and suppliers a variety of exhibiting options and will work with the participating companies to create a list of targeted retailers they would like to attend the new event. This select group of retailers will receive subsidized travel expenses and free lodging, but all qualified retailers will be able to attend.

Lifeboat’s Lance Camisasca said: "In today’s tough economic climate, this highly focused and cost-effective format will efficiently connect buyers and sellers, offering a strategic boost for new products.

“The largest industry players have been hosting their own private summer dealer events for years. DealerCamp will provide smaller — but equally important companies, a concentrated retailer audience at a critical time in advance of Fall industry events. It’s an efficient model for everyone.”

Retailers will benefit from the event’s focus and timing. It will give them an opportunity to preview products earlier in the year, and help them get the attention they need to make informed decisions about ordering, said Camisasca.

DealerCamp will be held at the Snow Park Lodge in Deer Valley, Utah, just outside of Park City. With outstanding trails and roads in a spectacular setting, this is a world-class test lab for premier cross-country, downhill, and road product evaluation and is only 45 minutes from the Salt Lake City international airport.

Retailer lodging will be at the luxurious Park City Marriott, three miles from the resort by a Rails-to-Trails path. To provide transportation to and from the expo, DealerCamp is working with exhibitors to supply loaner bikes, and is arranging for free shuttles from Park City Transportation.

Camisasca said: “The industry has wanted something more intimate, casual and without the hassles of big third-party vendors for a while, so we’re really excited to offer DealerCamp.

"As with all our efforts, our aim is to provide a solid return on investment for manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers alike and to better prepare the industry for the fall’s big shows. And, of course, it will be a great opportunity to build relationships.”

In June, Lifeboat Events will repeat PressCamp for editors, and at the same resort.

Scott Montgomery, general manager of SCOTT USA, said: “The Lifeboat Events team isprofessional, responsive, and a lot of fun, too. It’s obvious they take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and creating events that anticipate and fulfil everyone’s needs.”

A portion of the event’s proceeds will be ploughed into bicycle advocacy via leading nonprofit bicycle groups.